Police are urging people not to post their own CCTV images on social media.

Officers are concerned residents are posting exaggerated versions of events on social media channels including Facebook and Twitter which can cause alarm among people in local communities.

They also believe by posting on social media groups people are identifying themselves to offenders.

Now police are urging people to use appropriate channels to report crime directly to the force - and to submit CCTV footage to them rather than post it online.

A Staffordshire Police spokesman said: "It has come to our attention that people are reporting incidents via non-Police related social media platforms.

"While social media is a great tool for information sharing, when it comes to reporting crime it should be done via the correct channels - 101, 999, Crimestoppers or even direct to your local officer for things such as ASB.

"Furthermore, there is the danger of incorrect information being put out which can give exaggerated versions of events and cause unnecessary alarm to residents.